Breadcrumbs
Staff and Expertise
Several of the demonstration projects had a project officer, who
had at least a proportion of their post dedicated to Greenways.
Generally this role was a co-ordinating one, with several local
authorities and a range of community and interest groups involved.
They would typically be the central point of contact and
information distributor, and would also investigate and apply for
funding. They also have a role in raising the profile of the
project and helping it gain recognition, in addition to (or
sometimes instead of) the work of any existing project
champion.
The Barrow Furness Partnership experience is different. The Greenways "role" is shared between three local authority officers at district and county level, and this has worked well. The important factors are that the officers involved have a good working relationship and are committed to their Greenways work.
A wide range of expertise has been essential to the demonstration projects, in order to produce a strategy, carry out research, consult with communities and implement the network. Much of this work has been carried out "in house" by the partnerships themselves. The "successful" partnership, from experience gained so far, would involve people with skills in the fields of transport, planning, engineering, recreation, rights of way (and legal issues), highways and community consultation/development. Obviously this range of work could not be fulfilled by a lone officer, which is why setting up the right partnership is essential.
